Blankets are often an item of comfort and warmth during cold nights. When a blanket starts to become stiff, it loses its softness and can no longer provide the same level of comfort that is needed for a good night’s sleep. Additionally, when a blanket isn’t taken care of properly, it can start to look more worn out and aged.
The biggest advantage of learning to make a blanket soft again is that it can save you money. Replacing an old or worn-out blanket with a new one can be expensive, but if you know the right techniques and methods for restoring the softness of an existing blanket, then you don’t have to.
Additionally, being able to restore your blanket’s softness can be a great way to extend its life and keep it looking new for many years. In this blog post, You will learn in detail how to make a blanket soft again.
Materials You Will Need
- Dryer sheets
- Vinegar
- Washing machine
- Detergent
- Softener
- Fabric softener balls
- Baking soda
- Hot water
- Towels
- Blow dryer
- Ironing board and iron
- Spray bottle with a distilled white vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 1 part water)
Step-by-step Instructions for How to Make a Blanket Soft Again
Step 1: Inspect the Blanket
Give your blanket a close examination. Look for any signs of wear and tear like snags, worn fibers, fading from washing, pet damage, or loose stitching. If the blanket is severely damaged in any way, it may not be salvageable.
Step 2: Wash Your Blanket
Place the entire blanket into the washing machine on a gentle cycle, using the warmest temperature recommended for the fabric. Use a mild detergent designed specifically for delicate fabrics. To preserve your blanket’s shape and keep it from shrinking, dry it on a low heat setting in the dryer. Add several tennis balls or wool dryer balls to keep the fabric from clumping.
Step 3: Steam Your Blanket
To ensure your blanket is extra soft, use a handheld steamer and steam the entire blanket. Take your blanket outside or to an open window and shake it vigorously for a few minutes. This will help eliminate any clumps of fabric that have formed and fluff your blanket.
Step 4: Use a Fabric Softener
Add 1/2 cup of liquid fabric softener to the final rinse cycle of your next washing machine cycle for extra softness. Be sure to check the cleaning instructions on your blanket first, as some fabrics may not be compatible with fabric softeners.
Add 1/2 cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle for extra softness. The vinegar helps strip away any excess detergent build-up that could be making your blanket feel stiff or scratchy.
Step 5: Dry Clean Your Blanket
Take your blanket to the dry cleaner to remove stubborn dirt and odors. This will also help restore the fibers of the fabric, making it softer. To get a light, airy feel from your blanket, hang it out in direct sunlight for several hours. The sun helps break down fibers in the fabric, making it softer.
Step 6: Put Your Blanket in the Freezer
Freeze your blanket in a plastic bag for 12-24 hours. This helps to eliminate any microscopic critters that could be causing your blanket to feel scratchy or uncomfortable. After freezing, take it out and shake it vigorously before using it.
Following these steps will give you a soft and comfortable blanket in no time. With a little effort, you can make your blanket look and feel like new again.
Tips for How to Make a Blanket Soft Again
- Make sure to read the fabric label and follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding suitable water temperature when washing the blanket. Hot or boiling water may damage the material, leading to a harder texture after it is washed and dried.
- Look out for signs of shrinkage; if it occurs, put the blanket in a mesh bag and wash it in a gentle cycle setting.
- Use detergents that are designed for delicate fabrics, or use a mild soap such as baby shampoo to keep the blanket soft.
- Avoid fabric softeners; these can cause build-up on the blanket and further reduce its softness over time.
- After washing, air-dry the blanket outdoors in direct sunlight. Sunlight helps to soften and brighten fabrics naturally.
- If you must machine dry, use a low-heat setting for no longer than 10 minutes.
- When storing the blanket, fold it neatly so that the fabric does not crease or bunch up. This minimizes friction between the fibers and helps keep your blanket soft.
Following these tips should help to make your blanket soft and fluffy again! For more information on how to care for fabric items, please refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines or contact a professional cleaner.
How Do You Clean Your Blanket Before Making It Soft?
If the blanket has been stored for a long period of time, it’s best to wash it before attempting to make it soft again. To clean your blanket, you can either machine wash it or handwash it, depending on the material and instructions on the label.
When washing in a machine, add laundry detergent and use gentle cycle and cold water. For hand washing, use a mild detergent in lukewarm water. After the cycle is complete or you have finished with handwashing, tumble dry your blanket on a low heat setting.
Do not completely dry the blanket—leave it slightly damp for softening purposes. Lastly, add two tennis balls into the dryer to help fluff the fabric as it dries. To ensure your blanket is extra soft, add a cup of distilled white vinegar to the washing cycle or handwashing bath.
You may also use a fabric softener according to the label instructions. Once your blanket has been washed and dried, it’s ready for softening.
How Should You Store the Blanket Long-term to Keep It Soft?
Storing the blanket properly can help keep it soft for longer. When storing the blanket, make sure to use an airtight container or closet space that is free of any moisture. This will help prevent dust and mildew from collecting on the fabric and making it brittle over time.
Additionally, if you are storing a wool blanket, place some fabric softener sheets near the blanket to help keep it soft and smelling fresh. Lastly, be sure not to store a wet or damp blanket, as this will cause mold and mildew to form. By following these tips, you can ensure that the blanket will stay soft for years to come.
In addition to storing your blanket properly, occasionally washing and drying it correctly can help keep the fabric soft. When laundering, use a gentle detergent made specifically for delicate fabrics and warm water setting on your washing machine.
Dry the blanket at a low temperature or air dry if possible to prevent the fabric from becoming brittle. Washing the blanket periodically will also help remove any accumulated dust and dirt over time.
How Can You Dry Your Blanket Without Damaging It in the Process?
When looking to make a blanket soft again, it is important to consider how you will dry the blanket. It is generally recommended that you never put a blanket in the dryer, as this can damage and even shrink the fabric. Opt for the following drying techniques to make your blanket soft again safely:
- Hang It Up: The best way to dry a blanket is by hanging it up outside or near an open window. This allows the blanket to be exposed to fresh air, which helps remove any dirt, dust, and odors that have accumulated with use.
- Hang It Up Inside: If you can’t hang your blanket outside, try doing so inside the house. Place it near an open window or in a room with plenty of airflows to ensure your blanket is properly dried.
- Lay It Out: If you can’t hang up your blanket, try laying it out on a flat surface and allowing it to dry there. Do not pile other items on top of your blanket while it is drying.
- Use a Fan: Place your blanket near an open window or use a fan to help spread air around it and dry it quicker. Make sure that the fan is not too close to the blanket, as this can cause it to shrink in size.
By following these tips, you can make your blanket soft again without damaging it in the process. Be sure to take proper care of your blanket, and you will have a soft, cozy item that will last for years.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making a blanket soft again is possible with some effort and dedication. There are many methods to try, from shaking it out to adding vinegar and fabric softener to your laundry routine. It’s important to pay attention to the type of material your blanket is made out of, as well as washing instructions for optimal results.
With a bit of patience and determination, you can make your blanket as soft and cozy as it was when you first purchased it. I hope reading this post has helped you learn how to make a blanket soft again. Make sure the safety precautions are carried out in the order listed.
